Indiana Michigan Power joins "Utilities United Against Scams Day"

FORT WAYNE, IN-- Indiana Michigan Power is joining electric and gas companies across North America in fighting scams targeting customers.

As a part of this effort, November 16th has been designated "Utilities United Against Scams Day."

Scammers- who pose as utilities employees and demand payment under false threat of disconnected services- are especially active around the holiday season. I&M warns that these thieves typically attempt to steal money by phone or in person, but to be wary of falsified mail and emails as well.

To better protect their customers, I&M released this information:

What are the scammers doing?

· Threatening to shut off power unless an immediate payment is made;

· Instructing customers to go to a certain store and purchase a prepaid card then call for further instructions;

· Telling customers they need a new electric meter but must make a payment before the new meter is installed;

· Offering a discount on their I&M bill if they sign up for auto-pay;

· Negotiating total bill amounts if an immediate payment is made;

· Demanding a deposit be paid immediately.

How can I&M customers protect themselves?

Know I&M will never:

· Disconnect service without prior warning;

· Accept payments in person or call and ask for credit/debit card information over the phone;

· Insist a payment be made with a prepaid credit card;

· Ask a customer to meet us in a parking lot, at a store or other location to make a payment.

Indiana Michigan Power states that "If a customer suspects someone is trying to scam them, they should hang up and call the local police and then I&M at 1-800-311-4634. Never dial the phone number the scammers provide."